Possession of less than 2.5 grams of marijuana in Bushnell is soon to become a city ordinance violation rather than a state charge.

During a city council meeting Monday, aldermen heard a first reading of a proposed ordinance that would impose a fine of $250 to $750 to those caught with less than 2.5 grams or with drug paraphernalia.

Alderman Bruce Lorton, who serves on the council's police committee, said the proposed ordinance will help the city financial and, at the same time, perhaps a young person who makes a one-time mistake.

"If the fine is there, the city can get the money instead of the state," he said. "And if a kid makes a mistake, this is kind of a way to keep it off his record."

Bushnell Police Chief Joe Fosdyck did not immediately return a call for comment by press time Tuesday.

In other action, Monday night, the council heard first readings on the following ordinances: One that would raise the minimum ordinance violation fine from $25 to $50, one that would raise lower the minimum grass and weed height from 12 inches to eight inches, and one that allow police to issue ordinance violation tickets to those who are caught violating the state's Smoke Free Illinois Act.

The city will hear second readings of the all the ordinances at the next Bushnell City Council meeting, which is set for 5:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 5. at Bushnell City Hall. The council could also chose to adopt the ordinances at that meeting.